Sherman Joseph Basil

Affectionately known as “Pops”, “Big Poppa”, “Grandad”, “Uncle Sherman”, “Mr. Sherman”, and “Sherm”

“His life was a blessing, his memory a treasure. He is loved and will be deeply missed.”

Today we gather to remember Sherman Joseph Basil, a man whose life was marked by hard work, devotion to family, and a generous spirit. He was an incredible dad, loving grandad, uncle, cousin, and friend who touched the lives of many. He was known for his various talents and showed his love through sharing his knowledge with others.

Born on December 3, 1935, in Washington, DC to the late Richard and Evelyn Basil. Preceded in death by 8 siblings,

Paul (Sonny), Robbert (Robbie), Aldrich (Lolly Pop), Richard (Tuck), Elsie (Dee-Dee), Margaret (Sista), Lucinda, and Pearl.

He worked at Grey’s Laundry as a delivery driver where he met the love of his life, the late Phyllis Suiter. In June 1961, he completed a course in the practice and theory prescribed for Small Gasoline Engines at Phelps Vocational school in Washington, DC, where he developed skills that would stay with him throughout his life. He went on to spend decades as a dedicated cab driver, becoming a familiar and trusted presence for the law offices of Surrey and Morse.

The skills and knowledge he learned at Phelps Vocational School was kindly shared, teaching us how to change oil, replace brakes, swap out tires, change spark plugs, and so much more. He understood every part of a car—from the engine to the transmission—and took pride in passing that knowledge on.

He was a dedicated unofficial driving instructor, teaching countless family members and friends how to drive. Many of us remember our first time behind the wheel—often making that memorable trip to Baltimore with a stop for crabs. With his signature style, he’d sit beside us with a rolled-up newspaper in hand, ready to tap us if we put both hands on the steering wheel. It was his unique way of teaching, and it’s a memory that still makes us smile.

He loved cooking and often prepared large meals which family and friends enjoyed. He made an excellent steak, delicious fried fish, and was especially known for his signature dish of fried corn, okra, and tomatoes with pork bacon. The aroma alone would fill the entire house. He could cook just about anything, though baking wasn’t quite his specialty.

He was a man of many talents and a true do-it-yourself kind of person. He could build, paint, and handle small plumbing and carpentry projects with skill and confidence.

He was a social butterfly who loved talking with anyone and everyone. He could carry on a conversation just about any topic and enjoyed engaging with people. Being around others gave him energy and brought him joy.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories in the hearts of many. He is survived by four children Timothy Basil, Gary Davis, Kevin Basil, and Colleen Basil; two stepchildren who preceded him in death Michael Terry and Donna Batts; two daughters-in-law Yvonne Terry and Laura Davis. He was a devoted grandfather to 15 grandchildren Lapreia, Kisha, Keena, and Kayla Terry; Miya, Maketta, Melvin, Michael, and Briana Batts; Marquise and Makayla Basil, Tanisha Dozier, Ashley and Kayla Davis, and Malik Basil; 20 great grandchildren, Asiah and Isiah Hill, Josiah Meeks; Jaylen and Jordan Brodie, Anthony, Kaylie, and Marlei Wages; Jay Terry; Saniya, Melvin III, and Myles Batts; Mackenzie and Kennedi Barbary; Kylie Dozier, Jasiah and Amarah George, Trenton Basil; Nova Forbes, and Nuri Brown; along with a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and other family members and friends.

Visitation will be held at Second New St Paul Baptist, 2400 Franklin St NE, Washington, DC 20018, US, on June 15, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

A Committal Service will take place at National Harmony Memorial Park, 7101 SHERIFF RD, HYATTSVILLE, MD 20785, US, on June 15, 2026, at 1:00 pm.